2007 Aprilia RSV 1000R

When it comes down to sport bike technology, I wanted to take a closer look at the sport bike that keeps winning races and dominating the European race tracks; the Aprilia RSV 1000R.

Steve Okenfuss, owner of Reno's Yamaha Aprilia KC jumped at the chance to bring this bike into the limelight. We set up a time to ride this new monster, and fellow Cycle Connections team member Phil Peeler gladly took the camera, while Marsha Ore drove the truck and attempted to keep up with me.

Two features I first noticed were the clean instruments and digital readout gauges, which give the bike a sophisticated and clean look. The paint schemes are also very attractive. Many high-dollar parts have been used on this model that it's hard to believe the MSRP 'out the door' price is only $10,999.

This motorcycle is for real and is an out of the crate racer that is ready to ride on the street. I really liked the handling and the braking system. The newer bikes are becoming very competitive as far as trying to outdo one another in the handling and braking arena; however when it comes to all of the really good components that are used in the RSV this really drives the cost of the motorcycle up in price and further out of reach for the average consumer. Aprilia has really done their homework on this sport bike. It is a bike that stands out, especially with its v-type motor. I truly think that you must weigh out the options that have been introduced in 2007 and look at and hear the throaty exhaust of the v-twin engine and the exceptionally sharp 2-piece body work style Aprilia has rolled out.

The fuel injection system is all fed into the Intake tract by 57mm throttle bodies and it is crisp and extremely responsive. It tends to really want to get up to redline if you do not pay attention. I was asked to not exceed 20 miles on this unit and when I had made my rounds I felt that I had enough technical information to judge this motorcycle. I left wishing that I could have one of these in the garage as a fun bike to ride.

RIDER SUMMARY:Hands down, this bike has all of the horsepower and weight ratio I would want in a bike. The frame and suspension work absolutely perfect together, as well of the ignition system, wheels, and tires. If you have only dreamed of owning one of these fine motorcycles, quit dreaming because this is an amazing bike that everyone can afford. When you factor in all of the great components in this build and the MSRP price, you are truly getting the most for your money with Aprilia, plus, a unique looking bike!

I want to personally thank Steve Okenfuss for giving me the opportunity to test ride one of the best European sport bikes on the market today.